The prices of the DS3 Crossback range have increased by €300 since June 1, 2022. The base price of the premium urban SUV is now €27,200. The price reaches €49,000 for the electric version in the Louvre finish.

Au 1^is June, the DS3 Crossback SUV range recorded an increase of €300 on all versions compared to the prices for the month of April 2022. Remember that the DS3 Crossback offer includes no less than eight levels of finishes called: Montmartre, Bastille , Performance Line, Roofs of Paris, Faubourg, Performance Line +, Rivoli and Louvre. As a reminder, the Toits de Paris limited edition was added to the range in January 2022.. For its part, the range of engines leaves the choice between three petrol proposals of 100, 130 and 155 hp, two diesels of 110 and 130 hp as well as a 100% electric variant delivering the equivalent of 136 hp. This represents a total of 36 possible versions for individuals, the choice is vast.

A facelift on the way

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During 2023, the urban SUV of the premium brand of the Stellantis group will go through the restyling box which will give it a more angular look in the spirit of the new DS4. This DS3 Crossback phase 2 will occupy the land until the replacement of the model in 2026-2027, by a second generation that will only be electric.

DS3 Crossback price (June 2022)

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In addition to the electric ZS, MG is finally launching the thermal ZS on the French market. This will compete with the Dacia Duster with a starting price set at €16,990. The gasoline SUV, available with two engines (106 and 111 hp), relies on its rich equipment to seduce.

British manufacturer now belonging to the Chinese group SAIC, MG markets the thermal version of its compact SUV ZS in France. Available since 2017 in certain markets, where it was restyled in 2020, this competitor to the Dacia Duster has so far shunned France, which was only entitled to its electric version ZS EV. In an attempt to overshadow the king of low-cost SUVs in our regions, MG relies on an attractive price/equipment ratio.

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The Duster’s first front-end competitor

With 4.32 m long, 1.81 m wide, 1.65 m high, 2.58 m wheelbase and a trunk of 448 l bench seat in place, the thermal MG ZS displays dimensions very close to those of the Dacia Duster. The latter, however, benefits from a much higher loading volume when its rear seats are folded down, with 1,485 l available against 1,166 l for its rival across the Channel.

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Petrol, manual and traction only

If the Duster offers the choice between gasoline (130 hp or 150 hp), bi-fuel SP-LPG (100 hp) and diesel (115 hp), with all-wheel drive possible in the latter case, the thermal ZS is only sold in petrol traction with two engines in the catalog. Its entry-level block is an atmospheric four-cylinder 1.5 l VTI-Tech 106 hp and 141 Nm associated with a five-speed manual gearbox. The offer is completed by a three-cylinder turbo 1.0 l T-GDI of 111 hp and 160 Nm whose maximum torque, available much earlier (1,800 rpm against 4,500 rpm), passes through a mechanical transmission. six-speed. No automatic transmission is offered, while the Duster is equipped with an EDC in the TCe 150 version.

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MG announces (surprisingly) CO consumption and emissions₂ equal for the two engines in the WLTP mixed cycle, with respectively 6.6 l/100 km and 149 g/km. This corresponds to an ecological penalty of 898 €, when that of the Duster varies from 0 to 330 € depending on the version.

An entry-level not stripped down

The MG ZS offer starts at €16,990 in the Comfort finish. This is €1,400 more than the entry-level Duster (Essentiel Eco-G 4 x 2). But at this price the newcomer has additional equipment, such as :

• air conditioner
• recoil radar
• 10.1-inch central touch screen
• 4 electric windows
• LED front and rear lights
• 17 inch alloy wheels.

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To take advantage of a similar endowment, the Duster in Comfort finish requires a minimum of €18,150. The second finish of the MG ZS is called Luxury and it also includes:

• 7 inch digital dashboard
• navigation system
• 360° cameras
• fog lights
• heated front seats
• electric driver’s seat
• blind spot monitoring
• rear traffic alert
• panoramic sunroof (on 1.0 l T-GDI)

Tariff MG ZS (June 2022)

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At the end of June 2022, the tricolor premium SUV DS 7 Crossback will go through the restyling box. A cosmetic operation carried out at mid-career which will be characterized by a light signature in the spirit of that of the second-generation DS 4 compact saloon. Concretely, the daytime running lights will be much more imposing, while the front bumper will adopt a clearly more angular formal register. While the evolution of the rear part will not be outdone with a tailgate modified in depth.

The best-selling model in the DS range, the DS 7 Crossback will also take advantage of its facelift to bring its driving aids up to date and offer itself the most rewarding multimedia system, the one that the DS 4 has just introduced. Enough to last until its replacement planned for 2025, date on which it will give way to a second 100% electric version. The latter will be made in Italy.

Pending the arrival of a redesigned muzzle and stern and a more extensive equipment, the DS 7 Crossback has already experienced since June 1, 2022 a price increase of €500 across the entire range without no change in staffing.

TO READ. DS 7 Crossback (2022). First photos of the restyled version

DS 7 Crossback 2022: from €40,500

This price increase also concerns the two limited editions Ligne Noire and Louvre, as well as the rechargeable hybrid variants, called DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 225 and DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4 x 4 300. From now on the price range oscillates between 40,500 and 69,200 €. For the record, last March, the DS7 range Crossback had already experienced a price increase of between 400 and 600 € for thermal engines, at the time, the plug-in variants were not impacted.

READ ALSO

1. DS7 Crossback E-Tense 4×4 test, our opinion on the rechargeable hybrid
2. DS7 Crossback (2019) test: which one to choose in gasoline?
   

DS 7 Crossback price (June 2022)

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This is the third time that Citroën and the Rip Curl brand have teamed up to give the French car brand’s compact SUV an air of freedom inspired by the world of surfing.

This new edition of the C3 Aircross Rip Curl thus offers a new exterior aesthetic thanks to the “Anodized Blue” Color Pack and a new “Blue Jeans” interior atmosphere. The SUV is therefore inspired by the blue of the sky and the sea by adorning itself with different shades of blue both outside and inside.

Based on the top-of-the-range Shine version, the 2022 special edition is also energized by 17-inch Origami Black diamond-cut alloy wheels combined with dark-tinted rear quarter windows and various equipment that sign the collaboration between the two brands. The bumper inserts and the mirror caps thus highlight the “Anodised Blue” Color Pack bringing touches of metallic blue which contrast with the body color chosen and the black of the roof. Indeed, the C3 Aircross Rip Curl has a black two-tone roof that can be matched with the 4 available body colors: Artense Grey, Platinium Grey, Perla Nera Black or Banquise White.

The Rip Curl logo is inscribed in white letters on the bodywork on the rear door sills of the vehicle.

Inside, the “Blue Jeans” atmosphere animates the passenger compartment and is found on the dashboard strip and upholstery. The main “Hello Chinor” upholstery, which covers the Advanced Comfort seats (¾ of the seats and backrests, side supports included), is a blue-grey fabric in a sportswear knit that is found in particular on technical clothing or sneakers.

It is combined with a leather-effect Saphir Blue coated technical fabric, inspired by the world of sport and boating, which makes up the upper part of the backrests and the cushion noses. The latter also benefit from a new bright blue La Rochelle stitching. Between the quilted part of the backrest and its upper part, a mottled Tiki Brasilia band, a white and black Polynesian tribal motif, has been specially created for the 2022 edition of the Citroën C3 Aircross Rip Curl.

On the dashboard, the Sapphire Blue grained material, mixed with mother-of-pearl, gives a metallic effect with reflections. Distinctive signs of the Rip Curl special edition, the floor mats are emblazoned with the brand name in embroidered white letters and the pocket for on-board documentation is made of a neoprene-type material, like the racing suits. surf.

Citroën and Rip Curl are continuing a collaboration here that began almost six years ago, with the C4 Cactus, and which was built with the C3 Aircross for the first time in 2018, then in 2020.

The Citroën C3 Aircross Rip Curl will be available in the catalog on July 1, for arrival in dealerships from September, and first deliveries in November.

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If new proof was needed of the growing domination of SUVs on the market, to the detriment of sedans in particular, it has now been two years since the Mercedes GLC has been the best-selling model of the firm with the star. Since the arrival of the manufacturer in this segment in 2008 with the GLK, 2.6 million copies of its mid-range crossover have found takers. But there is no shortage of competition between the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and others. So, at the time of the change of generation, there is no question of breaking this dynamic with radical choices. The new Mercedes GLC evolves smoothly in terms of styling, while benefiting from a significant technological improvement over its predecessor. Its range of engines is fully electrified.

A more family-friendly Mercedes GLC

The second Mercedes GLC of the name takes up the technical basis of the C-Class. In terms of look, it retains almost the same look as its predecessor but is easily distinguished from it, from the front, by its lights which taper towards the interior to reach the grille. A trained eye will also notice that the mirrors have been pushed back on the doors and are now “feathered”. The taillights stretch and thus approach those of the brand’s compact models.

This conservative style hides increased dimensions, since the new GLC is 4.72 m long (+ 6 cm), including 2.89 m of wheelbase (+ 1.5 cm), for an unchanged width of 1.89 m and an almost identical height of 1, 64m (-4mm). The overhangs have lengthened, by 1.5 cm at the front and 3 cm at the rear, where the trunk gains 50 l to display 600 l of capacity. Its tailgate is motorized (by button) as standard. The rims range from 18 to 20 inches in diameter. The basic Avantgarde finish is distinguished by touches of chrome, notably on the grille and the lower skid plates. However, these are only decorative, like the dummy exhaust pipes on the rear bumper. The aerodynamics have been taken care of with a drag coefficient lowered to 0.29 in the most favorable configuration, against 0.31 previously, in favor of consumption and soundproofing.

A unique interior layout

If the exterior changes little, the interior of the GLC evolves much more. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel without a cap and an 11.9-inch “floating” central touch screen, positioned vertically and facing the driver, are standard. A color head-up display is available as an option; it makes it possible to integrate augmented reality into the navigation system. The air vents are now oblong, and those in the center sit above the infotainment monitor. As for the storm doors, they now accommodate horizontal armrests along their entire length. Mercedes has also redesigned the design of the front seats to give them an appearance that is both light and enveloping. Note that they are heated from the entry level. The MBUX infotainment system, finally, is announced as much more efficient, especially with regard to the voice assistant. And the car is automatically equipped with a wireless charger.

TO READ. mercedes. The brand goes upmarket and creates its Mythos label

An SUV that reads the road and writes it

The new GLC also receives a multitude of driving aids, which its predecessor could not claim. Some being deployed recently by the competition. The adaptive cruise control can thus detect a vehicle stopped downstream up to a speed of 100 km/h, against 60 km/h previously. The lane keeping aid works up to 210 km/h and is, according to Mercedes, much more precise on the secondary network. Panel recognition has been extended to overhead signs and certain site signs. Going through the catalog of options allows you to take advantage of a “transparent bonnet” view which is very useful for maneuvering. In addition, new towing aids are appearing, such as a route planner allowing the route to be optimized according to the trailer (width of lanes, height of bridges and tunnels, etc.) and semi-autonomous maneuvers up to at 5 km/h.

Another major new feature, the functionality of which depends on national regulations, is the Digital Light available as an option. These can project indications on the ground in front of the car. This can be to signal the presence of a pedestrian or to alert on a misdirection for example. The GLC features LED headlamps as standard.

A fully electrified range

The second-generation Mercedes GLC is only offered with 2.0 turbocharged four-cylinder engines (biturbo in diesel) paired with a nine-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive. The range includes three micro-hybrid models, including the 48 V electric starter-alternator integrated into the gearbox offering a “boost” of 23 hp and 200 Nm of torque.

• GLC 200 4Matic (petrol, 204 hp and 320 Nm thermal)
• GLC 300 4Matic (petrol, 258 hp and 400 Nm thermal)
• GLC 220 d 4Matic (diesel, 197 hp and 440 Nm thermal)

Three plug-in hybrids are also on the menu. They have in common a 136 hp and 440 Nm electric motor powered by a 31.2 kWh battery giving them a “zero emission” range of more than 100 km in the WLTP combined cycle, with a speed then limited to 140 km/h.

• GLC 300 e 4Matic (petrol, 313 hp and 550 Nm combined)
• GLC 400 e 4Matic (petrol, 381 hp and 650 Nm combined)
• 4Matic GLC 300 (diesel, 335 hp and 750 Nm combined)

TO READ. Ionity. Billing changes to kWh on the terminals of this network

The GLC on and off the road

The size, equipment, electrification and pollution control systems of the Mercedes GLC result in a very high weight, ranging from 1,925 kg (petrol MHEV) to 2,415 kg (diesel PHEV) in running order, excluding options. In order to support this mass, the Stuttgart firm opted for a multi-link suspension at the front and rear. Pneumatic damping is offered at an additional cost on micro-hybrids; it is standard in plug-in hybrid. The AMG Line finish comes with a “sport” suspension. The optional Technique Offroad pack offers ground clearance raised by 20 mm and functional underbody protection. Another option, rear-wheel steering make it possible to reduce the turning circle by 90 cm (to 10.9 m), to make the SUV more maneuverable at low speed and to improve its stability at high speed.

TO READ. mercedes. All the news until 2025

The specificities of the GLC range for the French market remain to be detailed. Like the previous one, the new model will be produced in Bremen (Germany), as well as in Beijing (China). The Sindelfingen German plant will be added to these sites to also assemble the SUV. The marketing of the vehicle in Europe is announced for the fall of 2022.

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Almost two million BMW X1s have been produced since 2009. Over its two generations, the Compact SUV has earned a solid place on the sales podium of the Munich brand. This shows the importance of its renewal with this third generation which responds to the code name U11.

A bigger BMW X1

The X1 gains 5 cm in passing and now extends over 4.50 m. In the range, it is thus 22 cm shorter than the X3 and 10 cm longer than the Series 2 Active Tourer, from which it takes up the platform called UKL. The fighter also gains 2 cm in width and 4 cm in height, to reach 1.64 m. An assertive SUV size that gives it a strong presence in the landscape against its many competitors: Mercedes GLB and Audi Q3 in the lead, not to mention the Volvo XC40, Range Rover Evoque, Lexus UX and other Jaguar E-Pace.

The dimensions of the new BMW X1 III vs BMW X1 II

Visually, he rather chooses change in continuity, betting on the loyalty of buyers of the previous generation BMW X1. Its look with classic proportions and window line will not offend anyone. The front face can feature two styles depending on the finish: xLine (as in our photos) with a kindly adventurous type or M Sport, more aggressive. Of course, the X1 is entitled to the very large grille of the latest models of the Bavarian brand. But here it is not shocking. Perhaps because it fits better in a slightly more massive model like this one… or simply a matter of habit.

Still, the X1 version 2022 looks rather proud with its bonnet with very marked relief, its swollen wheel arches and a fairly minimalist surface treatment, even “ monolithic according to the designer who presented the car to us, with fewer lines than before. This impression of purity is underlined by certain details, such as the integrated door handles or the absence of a visible exhaust.

Recipes already seen on the Series 2 Active Tourer. Roof rails and rims of at least 17 inches are included in the standard equipment. The rear part is the most striking finally, with its large spoiler in extension of the slightly drooping roof line, its prominent lights and its cantilevered rear window.

Minivan-style cabin

If the evolution of the exterior design is very smooth, inside it is a leap into the future compared to the previous generation. The pooling with the Series 2 Active Tourer has enabled the almost complete recovery of its interior furniture. Thus the X1 inherits from the very practical floating center console located between the front seats. Containing various storage compartments, it accommodates the automatic transmission controls (present on all versions), as well as other vehicle settings. The dashboard also incorporates a small additional central console which has an induction charging plate. Cleverly positioned, it allows you to clearly see the screen of your smartphone and offers visual animations as it charges.

Apart from the demisting buttons and the knobs guiding the air vents, no button is visible on the dashboard. The settings all go through the magnificent double curved screen of 10.25 and 10.7 inches, which is inevitably reminiscent of the equipment of the small models signed Mercedes with the MBUX. The latest generation operating system (OS 8) is here close to that inaugurated with the BMW iX. There are very beautiful graphics, configurable widgets like on a smartphone and… small slow reactions that we hope to see corrected in the production versions. Here too an iPhone can open and start the car, and it is possible to virtually share five keys.

The pretty three-spoke steering wheel, the solid sculpted door handles and the structure of the metallic Harman Kardon tweeter speaker covers are all very elaborate details that deliver a good impression of quality at this level of the range. The light beige of the leather and part of the furniture, the solid materials and the studied lighting atmosphere complete the picture.

Sharp modularity

In the rear seats, the space available and the headroom are comfortable. In some versions, it is even possible to play with a bench seat sliding over 13 cm (except electrified versions) to favor passenger comfort or boot volume according to a 60/40 modularity instead of the 40/20/40 partition. Finally, the backrests are adjustable in inclination. The boot volume reaches a comfortable value of 540 l (+ 35 l) and 1,600 l once the bench seat has been folded down (+ 50 l). Slightly lower capacities for the electrified versions (490 l and 1495 l respectively).

Engines: the choice of weapons

Four thermal engines will be available at launch in October, in gasoline and diesel. The manufacturer announces powers of 136 to 218 hp, a dual-clutch seven-speed gearbox, all-wheel drive and 48 V light hybridization technology for the two most powerful. In France, the brand estimates the share of diesels at 40%, at least at the time of launch. The range could also expand in the future with 20i versions of 170 hp, 20d of 190 hp, or even M35i of 300 hp.

If it is only speculation for the latter, the electrified models are however well confirmed by the brand. And they will arrive at the beginning of 2023 at the latest. These are two plug-in hybrid versions of 245 and 326 hp with xDrive all-wheel drive (thanks to the rear electric motor) which will offer 89 km of range with their solid 14.2 kWh battery. , which is almost double the current version ! Better, with 17 g/km of CO₂ minimum, the X1 could be one of the few plug-in hybrid cars to benefit from the ecological bonus granted to electric vehicles, if it is still current when it comes out. Indeed, a tax niche allows PHEV models rejecting 20 g/km of CO₂ or less to benefit from a more advantageous financial boost.

This new generation is also an opportunity to to offer a 100% electric iX1 version for the first time, with a 62.5 kWh net battery which has a range of 438 km WLTP. Accepting a DC fast charge of 130 kW, the car can go from 10 to 80% capacity in 29 minutes or regain 120 km of driving in 10 minutes. The on-board AC charger is 11 kW, or 22 kW as an option. This version will develop a total power of 313 hp with its two engines providing all-wheel drive. Enough to deliver good performance despite a mass exceeding 2 tons.

Price of the new BMW X1 (June 2022)

With a price starting at €42,750, the X1 goes up a big step of €10,000 in its access price (€32,800 today). Fortunately, its standard equipment is also on the rise, including LED lights, electric tailgate, high-definition dual screen with navigation, dual-zone air conditioning and Park Assist. Orders are already open, for an arrival in concessions expected at the start of the school year for the thermal versions (end of September, beginning of October). The complete range of electrified engines will be available at the end of the year. As for the prices of the BMW iX1, they will be revealed in the fall. Production of the all-electric SUV is due to begin in November.

*finish reserved for professionals

Conclusion: the BMW X1 is getting gentrified!

With a perfectly up-to-date presentation, equipment and infotainment system, the X1 is relaunching its career to seduce customers in a hotly contested segment. Better still, it accompanies its new generation with a wide range of engines, up to 100% electric, in order to cover all needs. Enough to follow a demand called to evolve towards electrification, under a modern but fairly wise silhouette. As for those who would prefer a derivative of the BMW X2 with a more dynamic line, rest assured, it is also in the plans of the propeller brand.

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The end of the world didn’t happen when Rolls-Royce and Bentley released their own SUVs. And it’s a safe bet that Ferrari won’t cause the apocalypse either with its own. It’s 2022 and everyone wants SUVs. Even those who drive Ferraris.

Maranello will tackle the Cullinan and Bentayga with its own 12-cylinder SUV, but with more emphasis on the “S” for “sport” than the “U” for “utility”. Before its presentation in the coming months, the Purosangue (Italian term meaning “thoroughbred”) was caught in the middle of a practice session.

Announced a few weeks ago as a “game-changing” model, the V12 will be at the heart of the Ferrari of SUVs. Enthusiasts will be delighted to hear that Prancing Horse engineers have found a way to keep the big-displacement engine alive, even in the age of downsizing. Tighter regulations imposed by the authorities to reduce emissions have meant that small turbocharged engines dominate the automotive industry, but the Purosangue will have a nice big naturally aspirated V12.

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We can hear it in the adjacent spy video of a near-production prototype wearing finer camouflage. In any case, it is an engine that runs at full speed, without forced induction, and which we can assume that it packs quite a punch. But what power? All that is known is that the 6.5 liter engine of the 812 Competizione developed 830 horsepower and 692 Newton meters.

However, Ferrari said an even more powerful V12 is in the works. The Italians refrained from specifying whether it will equip the Purosangue or a sports car, and so we will have to wait until the end of the year, when the vehicle will celebrate its world premiere. Considering it’s a big four-door, all-wheel-drive model, we think it’s going to be the heaviest Ferrari ever, and it’ll need all the muscle possible to live up to its crest.

Although still in disguise, the most practical Ferrari of them all already looks a lot sportier than the vast majority of SUVs out there. Besides, it almost feels more like a raised SUV than anything else. The silhouette seems stocky, as if to better leap.

The company is committed to keeping the Purosangue as exclusive as the brand demands. Not only will Ferrari use the same strategy of prioritizing existing customers, the SUV is also expected to attract new buyers to the brand. Like the Roma coupe and Portofino convertible, the next model should help Maranello attract younger customers.

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Some models marketed by Volkswagen are not available in Europe. For once, the Wolfsburg manufacturer is launching a brand new model that spy photographers saw in Sweden several months back. As you will have understood, this model will not be sold with us, it is exclusively reserved for the Chinese market and produced in partnership with FAW.

His name, the Tavendor, and given its dimensions, this model is placed below the Talagon, another model reserved for the Middle Kingdom. The Tavendor is 4.93 meters long, 2.01 m wide and 1.75 m high. For comparison, the Talagon is 5.15 meters long, 2 meters wide and 1.79 m high. These two SUVs have a wheelbase of 2.98 meters.

Volkswagen is forming another joint venture with another Chinese manufacturer, SAIC. Together, the two companies market the Teramont which is placed between the Talagon and the Tavendor with its 5.05 meters in length. We can also mention the existence of the Teramont X, the 4.91 meter long coupé SUV.

Going back to Tavendor, it is based on the MQB platform and features the 2.0 TSI engine associated with the DSG 7 dual-clutch gearbox. It is offered with two different power levels (186 hp and 220 hp) and can benefit from the all-wheel drive.

According to the website CarNewsChina behind these photos, the Volkswagen Tavendor will be launched on the Chinese market in the third quarter with a base price of around 300,000 yuan, or 42,300 euros at the exchange rate. The Tavendor will join a Volkswagen range made up of around twenty SUVs. If they wish, the Chinese will also be able to buy other European models such as Audis and BMWs specially developed for China, including the A7 L, which you will not see rolling in Europe.

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Is it a discovery or a rediscovery? After thirty years in the guise of the minivan, the Renault Scénic will give itself a new lease of life in 2024. To make us wait and already prepare ourselves for this inevitable change, the Vision prototype occupies the media ground today. Because if he still intends to embody the family vehicle of the range, the Renault Scénic will change silhouette. As required by the times, it will abandon the habit of the minivan, will become an SUV and above all will switch to 100% electric.

TO READ. Renault Scenic (2023). The future electric SUV is already showing

When the Scénic does its show!

The Renault Scénic will follow the brand’s new stylistic logic and will become the big brother of the 100% electric Mégane E-Tech. Like her, it will be assembled in the Douai (North) factory. A consistency that can also be found in the project names. Indeed, the Scénic carries the internal code HCB, while the Mégane E-Tech hides under the name BCB.

Gilles Vidal, the design boss of the Losange, confirmed it to us: the lines of the concept car that you have in front of you very faithfully prefigure those of the production vehicle expected in two years. Nevertheless, in order not to deliver all its advantages too soon, which the competition could draw inspiration from, the Scénic keeps it in mind and keeps a few mysteries about its interior. This is why, that of the concept car allows itself to be prospective, futuristic at will if not pragmatic and realistic. Indeed, the rear doors with antagonistic opening and the structure without middle pillar will not cross the course of industrialization.

A recycled cabin

Finally, from this point of view, there is nothing new compared to the Renault R-Space concept car of 2011, which was at the time the herald of the Scénic 4 of 2016. But who cares? The 2022 model has breathed the spirit of the times and dazzles us. To start with a giant screen located on the horizon line at the bottom of the windscreen. This equipment, which extends from one pillar to the other, is intended to “erase” the bonnet and the front of the vehicle. The driver thus gains in visibility (24% better) with a viewing angle increased by 6.7 degrees. If this has little interest on the highway, the advantage is immediate in town, especially during maneuvers. Especially since the new Scénic no longer has a short, plunging snout; it features a high, horizontal and elongated bonnet.

On board, the slabs are present everywhere, with no less than ten small specific screens lining the cabin. The goal is to offer direct access to a function without resorting to a plethora of menus and sub-menus. A digital arsenal which, again, should significantly reduce the airfoil on the standard version. But this nevertheless opens up the field of possibilities and portends the brand’s future interior achievements by 2030. Because, for the standard Scénic, an L-shaped dashboard like those of the Renault Mégane E-Tech and Renault Austral should be rigorous. In its desire to tell us a beautiful story, the Vision offers its four passengers a connected interaction. We talk to each other via microphones housed in the head restraints, and no need to turn around: everyone has the other rear occupants in video on a dedicated screen.

Well seated in his chair with a specific design, the driver benefits from a modern steering wheel. With its joystick shape, it is more like the controls of a private jet than the hoop of a car of yesteryear. Upholstered in white fabric, the passenger compartment gives pride of place to recycling. Its polyester materials are designed to be reused over and over again.

A dress not very Renault?

On the outside, the style of the vehicle shows an evolution resulting in more fluid forms. But, if we remove the diamond at the front and rear, not sure that the general public will recognize a Renault. The look of the SUV with its full forms and its well-marked facets makes one think, here and there, of the visual register of a Skoda or a Volvo XC40 at the level of the very thick bonnet, but in no way a model from the French manufacturer. Indeed, certain details such as the facets on the shields, the folds at the top of the hood or the streaks in the paint rather evoke the camp opposite, with a lion as an emblem; the one from which Gilles Vidal comes. The rear, bearing sharp boomerang lights, is rather reminiscent of the Czech brand of the Volkswagen group. Fortunately, there is a small cosmetic affiliation with the 100% electric Mégane E-Tech, but the resemblance is quite slim.

New proportions

The technical sheet of the Scénic Vision indicates a length of 4.49 m, i.e. 9 cm longer than the current Scénic 4 in the short version. But, specific electric platform requires, it is based on a wheelbase of 2.83 m, it is 10 cm better. Finally, with 1.59 m under the fathom, or 6 cm less, the car offers a more dynamic look. The concept is fitted with 21-inch wheels, compared to 20 inches for the current model. These rims are adorned with movable flaps optimizing aerodynamics at high speed and cooling of the brakes below 10 km/h. In the center, the diamonds remain vertical like the emblems of a Rolls Royce. It’s the prestige touch!

TO READ. Renault Scenic. From minivan to SUV, a 30-year saga!

The electric/hydrogen hybrid: yes, but not before 2030!

Like any self-respecting concept, the Renault Scénic Vision brings its share of innovations. Precisely under his floor. Because, beyond its 100% electric propulsion, this prototype inaugurates a technology that skilfully combines electric and hydrogen. Its goal ? Carry out a course of 800 km with, halfway, a full of H₂ done in 5 minutes. In short, the best of both worlds: the silence and virtue of electricity on the one hand, the autonomy of hydrogen on the other.

To do this, the CMF/EV technical platform has been thoroughly reviewed and its electric motor – that of the Mégane E-Tech with a power of around 220 hp – positioned on the rear axle. In addition, the car inserts in its floor, between the electric machine and the batteries, a 15 kW (about 20 hp) fuel cell powered by hydrogen. The tank, which can contain 2.5 kg of H₂, is located under the front cover. But this idyllic alliance will not be relevant on the production Renault Scénic of 2024. At best, this electric/hydrogen hybridization will arrive in 2030. In fact, to reduce manufacturing costs and ensure the consistency of the Mégane family – as was the case at the very beginning of the Scénic in 1996 – the 2024 Scénic 5 will house its electric motor at the front and will not benefit from a Fuel cell. It will be purely electric and, as such, will only draw its energy from its batteries. Spectacular, the Renault Scénic Vision caused a sensation. It will then be necessary for the production model to transform the test and be sufficiently successful to convince the ultimate followers of the minivan. The others have already switched to the SUV.

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